ďHey...Ē she calls attention softly, watching as his thoughts assault him bodily. Frowning, she slips into his lap and wraps her arms around him, placing her chin upon his shoulder. She would go, but not until he is comfortable. Jasper comes first, and she tells him as much with a soft squeeze.

Sheís about to say something when the other end picks up, and her nose wrinkles. ďCalm down, you desperate piece of f-cking sh-t. Youíre not so lucky. I got a text from someone claiming to be Spri- ...Ē Hanging up, she looks at Jasper, not quite sure what to feel. ďNot a trap.Ē

The first real smile in days touches her lips as she sets her own phone aside in favor of his. She could kiss him right now, honestly. But this is pressing. So, pressing the phone to her ear, she meets Jasperís stare with her own. ďI want it to be,Ē honesty is the best policy. ďI miss her.Ē

ďJasper,Ē she knows heís stressed and bothered, and she doesnít want to add to that weight. But still, she approaches his desk, pushing his work aside gently so that she can lean upon the edge. Holding her phone out to him, she shows him the message. ďI canít not go.Ē

Her head healed though still pounding, Mackenzie is torn and it shows. The intention is to return home. She knows and understands why, but... "Jasp," she turns to look at him for what feels like the hundredth time in an hour, she stops. Frowning, she stuffs a shirt in her bag. "Do we have time for a snack before the flight?"

Familiar footsteps come to a stop outside the door, and Mackenzie sits up immediately. Watching the door, it feels like forever before he steps into the room. Instantly, she is out of her seat and in his space, throwing her arms around his neck and raining kisses upon him. ďIím sorry. Iím so sorry. I feel so goddamn useless, while you carry the world on your shoulders. Lashing out was wrong. Itís not your fault.Ē With a sigh, she rests her forehead against his. ďI choose you, remember? Every time.Ē

His answer has her sitting up, shoulders squaring as she prepares for one of those rare arguments. They never last. These moments between the two are constantly fleeting, but seem to rise under copious amounts of stress. ďDo not get sh-tty with me for caring, Jasper,Ē Mackenzie calls him on the floor easily. ďThis isnít fun for either of us. You arenít going to get an apology from me for wanting to do something about it.Ē

The look she bestows in the face of his apology is something that speaks one thousand words. She hates this. She hates watching him walk out the door, knowing what will happen. Mackenzie realizes Jasper enjoys it all as much as she does, but it still stings. Heís sorry. He is always sorry. She is, too. ďIf youíd just let me try to talk to him... Iím sure there is something. There is always something.Ē

Mackenzie watches as Jasper readies himself to go out. They had been reckless, letting time slip away from them, and it left him running behind. "...Is there no way that we can negotiate you out of this?" Usually she is quiet about his necessary task, bottling it up and putting on a good face. For whatever reason, she cannot seem to put a lid on it tonight. "There must be something else of value. Anything else."

"Jasper, it's been days. Only days. And she has just uprooted her entire life." Licking her lips, she glances downward toward his phone before finding her own resolve. "I think, if I were her, I'd hate it more if you didn't check in on me."

Taking a breath, she lifts her chin. "Tell you what. You do this, and if you still want to go home after, we will go. If not, we will just find ourselves a place to stay. Deal?"

Narrowing her eyes, Mackenzie makes a slow approach until she is stood right before him. Staring up at him, she studies him carefully as a decision is made. "...No. It's not even been a week. We are going to give this the time it requires."

A hand on his shoulder, she raises up to press a kiss upon his cheek. "I think you'd feel better if you saw for yourself, Jasp."

She had woken up to a text message, and she had been fuming thereafter. There is not a single word that quite fits how Mackenzie feels, but instead a million. Predominately, irritated, worried, and jealous. She had portrayed this emotions perfectly in a simple text before hunkering back down into the large hotel bed, drinking herself into a dreamless sleep.

He'd return, and she doesn't even stir. Mackenzie remains still as she becomes aware of him. It is only once he has passed out that she rolls over to take her place curled into his side, a tangle of limbs and sheets.

Mackenzie's hands are bloodied and bruised, knuckles busted after the beating she had bestowed upon their creation. The blows had been no match for the tongue lashing she had bestowed upon him, and in the end, he was barely recognizable. All the while, she'd felt Jasper's eyes on her.

Leaving their fledgling unconscious, she crosses the space to Jasper, landing one last kick along the way. "F-cking b-stard," she murmurs darkly. "You'd think he'd do better. He's a f-ckin' father." She sucks in an indignant breath, she catches a whiff of him. A quiet 'hm' would sound as she looks him over before leaning into actually sniff him.

"I wasn't aware that my web search history had been made public...I'll keep the offer in mind." A small chuckle escaped Averly, but her eyes shifted ever so slightly back and forth. Who had ratted her out already?

Mackenzie got off the plane in a huff, stalking her way through and out of the terminal. She finds Jasper easily, immediately gravitating to him and finding comfort within his grasp. The return home is quiet as she mulls over what has just happened, remaining tucked into Jasper. She'd never strayed so far from home before. Her sights would land on the stained mattress upon entering their home, and Mackenzie does her best to put on a good face.

A hand reaches up to his face, turning his head and pulling him down so that she can plant one of those tell-all kisses upon him. "We need a mattress protector," she whispers in close quarters. "Now where is that f-cker. I'm going to bash his goddamn face in."

The bed has arrived. Mackenzie is a cheap b-tch, make no mistake. But she'd insisted on taking the lead on this, and as she watches the delivery men walk the Heirloom mattress to their sixth floor apartment, she can only smirk. It would only widen when she tells them to drop it on the floor next to the heap of blankets that had served as their makeshift bed. It's the little things that keep her sane while her husband is out doing his job.

So when Jasper did return, he would likely trip over not one but two bodies on his way into their cramped utopia. His wife? Lounging on the plush pillow-top mattress, thoroughly pleased with herself. "Hello, love." Mackenzie holds all the affection in the world for this man. "I think one is still breathing, if you want a snack."

ďOnce we get moved into the apartment, itíll be better,Ē Mackenzie practically coos at the man, taking every opportunity to soothe his frayed edges. Things have been stressful lately, and she must remind herself that he expresses his emotions where she tries to bottle them up. ďThink about it... a big comfy mattress on the floor with a mess of blankets and pillows. Itís going to be great.Ē

ďWhy do you assume I did something, just because Iím appreciating you?Ē A quiet tsk would escape her before she presses a quick kiss upon him and releases him. Heís such a goon right now, itís a wonder heís giving her the time of day. ďWho pissed in your Cheerios, hm?Ē

She hadn't realized he was so close. Jasper had managed to sneak up on her, and Mackenzie turns an appraising gaze upon him. Setting her phone down, she stands and makes her approach. "Why so agitated, Dear?" Pouting, she cups his face and pulls him down to her. "So handsome. So dreamy. I could eat you up."

For a moment he thought he was going to be a human sacrifice or something. He'd only been in 'Sine Metu' for a short period and still didn't know what to think of it much. He still thought it was secretly a cult.

She stares. Mackenzie stares so hard it hurts. They got the apartment. It's theirs. They officially have their own, shared space. Pressing her lips together, there is little she can do to suppress the grin forming. Suddenly, she has energy again - despite the constant beatings she endured for weeks. "That is the most romantic thing. What's for f-cking dinner?"

"That's why I have you to keep me in check," Mackenzie grins, watching as he pulls out his laptop. She doesn't wait for prompt, she knows what he is doing, and has already abandoned ship to cozy up beside him. At his question, she glances over the space. Tiny, cheap but overpriced, and barely room to breathe. Perfect for smothering, which is precisely what they love. Turning her head, she presses a lingering kiss to his jaw. "Surprise me, love."

ďI want...Ē Mackenzie pauses, straighten up where she stands in a sea of clothes that havenít seen the light of day in ages. Sheís not a hoarder. She just forgets. Looking over her shoulder at him, she gifts a smirk. ďI want a shoebox studio apartment in East Harlem, so I can trip over you constantly.Ē

Esper had been roaming the halls of the coven for a few hours now leaving things by people's doors, people he admired and or cherished. With all the gifting he seemed to come short to one of his favorites in the group of unnatural awesomeness that they were.

"Jasper f-cking Thompson," Mackenzie is tearing apart her room, doing her very best to work through items she might keep or throw away. She is making room, as if the two weren't already sharing two living spaces. Her room has always been larger. Without a second thought, she tosses a dead burner phone at him. "New plan. We're starting over. New space. This is too much. I like my stuff. You married my stuff. So."

Gives a nod to let him know he's back, and a single pat on the back once more as he takes down the poison. Hearing his words 'back'.. What could this mean Esper wasn't entirely sure what a coven was or what exactly he joined he thought of it as a 'Lions Club' or 'Free Masons' kind of vibe.

What could he mean back, he dismissed it as vacation or something else and rolled with that. Surely it wouldn't bring to much attention to the man beside him who he truly thought to be mortal along everyone else in the crew.

He honestly couldn't remember if he tried to tell him about himself. He couldn't remember much of his past I was like he just was a few months ago... This is why he was homeless without shelter.

It's difficult to say, some days it feels like I just landed here honestly I don't recall much of my past...memories here and there... Figured you and Mackenzie could give me more purpose and direction...sad to say...coming from a grown man, aye?

Patting him on the back, mainly to shyly hide the sorrow in his tongue. Nothing alcohol or coke wouldn't fix..that was a side neither of them saw but since he'd joined he hadn't the need to call on to her again...for now. He quickly to down another shot he'd fixed for himself.

What about you, huh? I know you like to burn that damn thing but I know it works too.

He just didn't want to comfortable and forget his place there was a hierarchy in place for reason. He was a friend and a brother at that soon enough least to say he'd take a bullet to the chest knowing he wouldn't make it through he'd take another for Mackenzie as well.

Aye, friend tonight then. Boss tomorrow.

He raised his glass then took it all at once with Jasper leading hand. He heard his remark about clothing. He laid his elbow down on the table and pointed his finger at Jasper his eyes squinting in all seriousness.

Aye, what kinda man would that make me then brotha,I take what is earned best not bite the hand that be feeding friend. I've only just begun. I'm only a hang around I haven't earned what you guys have given me.... A start..

"Holy f-ck, you take forever," Mackenzie is already on her bullsh-t when she sees Jasper. Who cares if she is extra loud as she calls to him from across the terminal? She's already approaching, a single bag in tow. Once within arms reach she holds the envelope out before snatching it back, thinking better of it. "Pay the toll, Dear."

This is by far the most difficult conversation he's had to date. Gray is staring Jasper in the face, watching him completely slip away. There hadn't been room for hope before, yet now it is absolutely impossible. So, when the answer finally comes, he nods in turn.

An amused huff escapes him before he can stop it. A long time, indeed. Maybe for Jasper, but not for the rest of the world. Least of all, himself. Turning his head, he looks out the window, churning the information over in his head. Assessing it. "You barely-" Gray stops himself before he can even get started.

Jasper isn't his to go at, anymore. He must remember this. But f-ck, he hates this decision with every fiber of his being. "Are you happy?"

Jasper hasn't even agreed before his phone is out, a message being shot to his attorney. It is short, to the point, and Gray merely glances at him with a slight upward curve to his lips. "None at all." Jasper had saved his life. Granted, he hadn't desired any saving. But Jasper's life now depends on his ability to do his job, and Gray would do all he could to preserve him.

But the bombshell is soon dropped, and Gray finds himself staring at the device in hand for a moment as he processes before looking at Jasper with carefully blank stare. And yet, his comfort level would betray him quickly. "...What? Why? It's been months."

"First class and Business were booked up." It's clear he is seething beneath the surface over it, and likely pitched a fit when there were no upgrades to be had without changing his plans entirely. At his own expense. "And don't give him attention, f-ck."

Without a thought, Gray is draping an arm around Jasper's shoulders and guiding them outside. His driver would have no doubt had ample time to get to their provided car by now, and he needs a f-cking drink. "How are the ladies of New York? I saw something online about you. Not very flattering." Still, as much as it eats at him, Gray makes a sincere offer. "I can have that wiped for you, you know."

Deplaning doesnít go fast enough. Disgusted, Gray practically beats his way out, making a beeline for where he knows Jasper will be waiting. Little does he realize that Big Carl is, actually, not far behind. Upon setting eyes on his counterpart, he closes the distance and mutters lowly. ďEconomy smells like piss and sweat. Never again.Ē

A deep breath is taken and slowly exhaled, another soft nod given as she relaxes in his grip. Yes. That's a yes. The end of the line. Everything they have done so far in their lives culminated to this very point in time, and it only makes sense. Mackenzie would smile into the kiss, contented and fulfilled.

No one would ever guess that Jasper is such a smooth talker, but damn - does he have a way with words. Their life is a mess, but it's theirs. Excuses are exhausting. She's ready to stop making them, and cannot fathom how she ever had. Why pretend? Why haven't they celebrated themselves? Another kiss is pressed upon him, an electric expression of just how she feels.

And then, she laughs quietly in the midst of it, her thoughts forming quickly but her lips pushing them out even faster. The words come out muffled in their proximity.

Puffing out her cheeks, she gives him a look that tells of how grateful she is to him for not laughing. Most would. Mackenzie expected it, especially after all they've just been through in recent months. Nodding softly, she exhales, pushing away that nervous energy along with her held breath.

"Fancy isn't who we are, Jasp." Taking a few steps forward, she manages a smile, finally able to let herself begin to relax. "We're wild. ...Is that a yes? Because that is a completely crazy thing I just threw at you, and we both just.. you know. So. Only if you're sure. No pressure. I'll stop f-cking talking now." As if to highlight her promise, she motions as if zipping her lips and tossing the key.

Again with the texting. Her phone is out, and she knows he's within screaming distance. So, naturally... "JASPER!" Attention demanded, she is already on the move. Once more she calls his name, if only to ensure she has his attention wholly when she finally finds him in some old, closed off station made specially for FDR's use.

"So, I had a crazy idea," she can feel her nerves begin to get the better of her. It's enough to force her hand at just... getting it out. "For while we're away." Beating around the bush, Mackenzie presses her lips together, squinting slightly as she watches him carefully for a reaction. "Lets get hitched."

Before, I wouldn't have been able to pay for this bet, now however it seems I owe you a drink...or in your case many...Friend

Let the word go into the air to see how it would sit on his mind, Esper had only spent awhile with the man, but all encounters were well off or at least in good intention after all Jasper did get booze out of being hit with a snowball.

Esper sees Jasper rolling by as he quickly packs together a while ball of furry and throws the snowball at his direction to easily grab his attention Esper was bundled up snug against a building not to far from Jasper's direction.

Turning, she looks at the corpse at her other side. A smile spreads upon her features, and she gives the nightmare of a dead woman a slap on the cheek before worming her way closer to Jasper. ďLater, we are totally hunting her friends via social media and framing her stupid f-cking arse for murder.Ē

ďF-ck off. You talk just as much.Ē Rolling onto her side, she sends an unenthusiastic punch to his shoulder. The same hand would fall into the empty space between them as she laments a sigh. ďItís fine. Iíll just kill her. And all her friends.Ē

ďWe made it...Ē Mackenzie groans, heading turning where she lays upon the heavy wooden table. It is morning. She doesnít know that, but she feels it. Theyíd closed down a bar... which would explain the dozen corpses and the stench of death and booze. ďYou have got to stop courting women with crazy eyes, Jasp. She wanted to wear your skin.Ē

"Of course you wouldn't," Mackenzie grins, downing her drink as she prepares herself for what she must do. There are many times she has found herself climbing atop a bar, but this one time may just be her favorite. Petty, she perches upon the stool beside her before hoisting herself up and standing at full height. So rare, to see the tops of people's heads.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, who here has someone to kiss tonight?" she calls out, hands cupped around her mouth as if that might help project her voice. Mackenzie needs no help in that department, and once she has the attention of a few (and Bridget), she drops her hands. The result of her question are some whoops and cheers from the intoxicated swath of mortals celebrating and proclaiming their useless resolutions. "Me too. Me. Too." Nodding, she gestures toward Jasper. "This f-cking man is my goddamn favorite person, and I am kissing him at f-cking midnight. So f-ck the lot of you!"

Pleased with herself, she looks at Jasper with a smirk. "There'll be no work tonight."

If Mackenzie hadn't just pissed in the woman's Cheerios, she might just make way for another brawl. Instead, she waits, smirking into quickly served glass as she takes a drink of victory. There is little concern as Bridget is waved off, "So sorry about Rover."

Attention on Jasper, she presses a hand softly to the great pink splotch upon his cheek before raising her own glass to him. "Never have, never will," she promises, taking a sip before setting the glass down. "Want to give her something to really talk about?"

Mackenzie is walking back to the crew after a night of debauchery. It had been boring, no matter how hard she tried to make it less so. From getting into a scuffle with her prey, to playing chicken at the edge of a high rise, she simply could not get into it. And that's when she sees it.

Jasper, standing in a bar with a woman. Now, she knows this must be work. She knows she shouldn't interfere. But f-ck if she can control her impulses. Just this once, right? One time won't hurt.

Stepping inside, she intentionally brushes by him and goes to the bar. "Two Jamesons," she demands. "Neat."

So far, so good. Mackenzie is home, without incident, and she has her person. There are no presents, and there doesn't need to be here. She simply enjoys him, and on this simple morning, her gift would be climbing back into bed after terrorizing the crew. No jumping, no diving. A kiss is placed to his cheek, a quiet Christmas wish, and Mackenzie is nestling in close for a lazy day with Jasper.

A shrug, infuriating as it may be, is what is gifted Jasper at his allowances toward Gray's words. They both realize he had been a little more than aggressive about his opinions, and they both know why. He will, however, take the pass thrown.

Sighing, he turns and looks at Jasper as he declares his leave, moving for the door. How the f-ck is Gray going to even begin to mend what is left of their relationship?

"...I was wondering if you might be willing to teach me how to actually play Call of Duty?" Clearing his throat, he bows his head. Shamelessly, Gray hadn't actually been playing when they'd gotten into that fateful fight. He'd been attempting to look like he knew what he was doing. "If you're not busy."

Gray is good at making promises, and even better at breaking them. He'd said he could do this, and each time he declares it, the stakes get higher. As such, met with Jasper fully prepared to leave, that cold and calculating set of storms would sweep over him before he moves further inside, shutting the door behind.

He can do this.

"One of our people live in a box. This tiny little thing that looks like it is made for jewelry." Gray is actively ignoring his declaration, instead opting to deflect the situation entirely. "I was in the box with her when you texted. She is intriguing..." A conundrum, to be precise.

"You are still upset with me for what I said." Not a question. Gray knows he had struck a particularly sensitive nerve for speaking the way he did about his best friend. "I apologize. I wouldn't have been doing my job had I not aired my concerns."

It isn't long before Gray is letting himself into his own apartment, kicking himself for being so volatile and also for entertaining the idea of going to his London apartment. Not just that, but actually doing it.

"Oh, for f-ck sake," Mackenzie strolls in, kicking the door shut behind her. A wicked smirk takes up her visage as she approaches Jasper, and she only glances upward for a second before closing in. Once upon a time, this game had been played on her. Now, she is passing it on the fun.

Mistletoe.

There is no hesitation as she throws her arms around his neck and presses her lips to his. How's that for a f-ckin' wooing?

"JASPER!" Mackenzie is screaming. Literally. Walking the tunnels she calls out more than once. Until, finally, she finds him at the 47th Street manhole. Grinning, she places her hands on her hips. "It's sealed."

"I really did a number on him," she woefully admits. "He sent me this video message - he was with another woman. Can you believe that sh-t?!" But Jasper is bringing her attention elsewhere, and Mackenzie is quick to change focus. Just like that, she flips the switch, going from terribly upset to eager and excited.

ďSeize the day!Ē Mackenzie declares, her arms wrapping around his middle as she hugs herself to his side. Jasper could lead. Heís in better shape, mentally. This is the best she could do to prepare for this, at least, after the texts. Ugh, the texts. Those stung.

His question pulls from her a wide, toothy smile. How is she? Mackenzie is dealing, self- medicating after being served by Spring and then again by her hobo. ďIíve been better,Ē she begins, feeling her emotions begin to slip under the influence. Sniffing, she presses her lips together as she considers.

Mackenzie stood inside outside the gate, waiting impatiently for Jasperís arrival. She had arrived just hours before, finding her way to the arrivals board and watching. Waiting. More waiting. Until now. Now, he is arriving.

...With Gray.

Huffing, she glances toward the other as they approach, not at all stalling as she hurries forward and wraps herself around Jasper. She missed him, and she is hopelessly out of her mind. More than one pill has been popped. Itís obvious.

The last thing she wants to do is hang up the phone, but they are running out of options. Neither want to talk about the heart of their issues, and neither desire to be alone. Tonight, miles upon miles apart, they would both face their demons; alone, and together.

ďIíll meet you at the airport,Ē she whispers, already feeling her emotions set in. Itís shared, really, as she knows what Jasper is going through and feels for him strongly. She always has.

Eying the bottle that sits before her on her desk, she makes a grab for it, screwing off the cap as she answers to him. ďLove you too, Jasp. Iíll see you soon, then.Ē

A small smile finds it's way upon her features as Jasper indulges her, and Mackenzie feels guilty for it. But his words quickly wipe it from her lips, and she closes her eyes at his lack of confidence. Swallowing, she lets herself focus on him, rather than the thoughts rattling about in the back of her mind at her own shortcomings.

"Jasp, you didn't fail." Mackenzie would forever dole out advice she is better meant to take herself. "She only ever wanted two things from the people in her life: their loyalty, and happiness. She's a b-tch, but..." Trailing off, she bows her head. Kenz understood Spring more than most might, which is what made that letter hurt even more.

The subject changes, an observation and question posed. Selfishly, she wants him home. They've been inseparable for so long, she can feel his absence.

Jasper's call comes sooner than she would have expected, and Mackenzie stares at the buzzing phone for several seconds before snatching it up in a moment of sheer bravery. Swallowing, she plays his game of soft greetings and softer words.

I don't want to do this.

Sucking in a deep breath, she would murmur quietly to her person, "I know, Dear.." Jasper dives in, and Mackenzie is unseeing as she listens to him narrate Spring's last words to her. There is little recognition for the emotions flitting across her features and blurring her sight. Lips pressed together, Kenz remains silent throughout.

You okay?

"Yea," her lie is delayed, his question taking longer than it should to register in her head. Gaze lifting to skyward, she would proceed to impart on a familiar dance. "I'm more concerned about you."

Turning to face the direction his voice calls from, Fi gives her best smile and nods. She's not one to drink usually as it disrupts her perception, but she may imbibe just once. "I'll be there. Thenk ye, again, f'r all yo'r help."

But first, the girl needs to purchase fish food for 'Ron' and maybe a small gift for Jasper. His thoughtfulness is actually alarming even if it makes her feel weak. Fiona offers a small wave, "See you soon, Jasper."

"Ah've spent much time alone, not speaking to anyone but a few words when necessary. I understand. Still had to give you sh!t for it though." A laugh escapes. "Ah'll try to enunciate more clearly when speakin' to the others and not sound like ah've got rocks in my mouf."

She's curious when he leaves and returns, a soft clinking coming from something he holds heralding his arrival. A growl on his part, the squeak of wood. Fi narrows her eyes trying to grasp a clearer image. Was he nailing cloth into the corners of her furniture? Aw, bless.

"Christmas party?" She's learned what Christmas is over the last eight years but has never experienced it. "Sounds like fun, what should I bring?"

He's very sweet. She almost feels bad for barking at him. Almost. She lazes behind just so she can see his aura in it's fullest and anything that might be in their path. The concrete of the tunnels has been Fiona's biggest obstacle and she's unsure why.

"Ah'm sorry for coming off a bit strong. Being blind, every one thinks you're incapable of things. Normally ah'm not.." It's a hard pill to swallow, being helpless. "And I didn' have much time to speak to Mackenzie last eve."

The door creaks ever so softly and Fiona's hand finds the frame as she passes Jasper's aura. "Thenk ye.." She walks cautiously through the room, a hand out to buffer should she run into anything. Fiona's not had to do this in years and it's humbling. "And no, sir. I appreciate your assistance."

If she had a bed, he would be more than welcome to sit on it but alas, she's blind and so she slept on the cold concrete of the subterranean nightmare after wandering for hours.

She sees his aura moving wildly, hears his exasperated tone. Fiona understands him just fine, it seems he doesn't understand her. So she enunciates.. clearly. "Keep the heid! I am blind not dumb y'dafty." Maybe she should request a name tag from Mackenzie. One that reads, 'Fiona the Blind'. "Thannnk yooou forr the giffft. Is there a room to put it with my things?"

She's minding her own business.. actually she was f-cking sleeping.. when something cold is shoved into her arms. A splash. Her t-shirt is wet. Blue eyes open with a start and the world slowly takes form. So many bright auras against a black backdrop. A small creature darts to and fro. A man. "Ron? Seems'n odd name f'r a f'sh. You 'arry?" She stands, barely, the fish bowl is actually a tich heavy. "Ah guess tha'makes m'Luna." She gazes down once more to the fish bowl. "Thenk ye.. n'er 'ad a fish b'fre."

"I called you better than pretty, Jasp," instinctively, she moves to adjust the straps that dig into his shoulders. If he's going to wear this, he's going to do it right. "You're a vision, remember?" Satisfied, she glances the picture and grins, immediately sending it off to Camille.

Snatching the bag quickly, Mackenzie makes a face as she takes her handful and stuffs it in her mouth. These things still make her want to gag, but she is such a fan of the high. Despite the taste, she snaps the picture, swallowing before dropping down to the floor and scooting over to sit beside him. The phone rises in the air, camera aimed right at them, and she presses her lips to his cheek as she snaps the ridiculous selfie. ďHow are the gummies?Ē

Brisk steps bring her around the corner, pull her forward, and stop her right before him as she pockets her phone. Biting down on her lip, Mackenzie looks him over before glancing over his shoulder at someone passing by at the other end of the hall. ďYou put Cam to shame, Jasp. What a vision.Ē Her sights pull back up to him, the corner of her mouth quirking upwards.

Without warning, her phone is retrieved again and the flash lights up space momentarily.

Small, familiar hands would land upon Jasper's shoulders as she steps up behind him, moving up into his hair as if it is the single greatest thing ever to be felt (it is). A soft laugh would escape Mackenzie, and her hands drop, moving to encircle him as she leans down to whisper. "Hi, Dear."

Mackenzie cannot help the roll of her eyes as he puts on his show. Honestly, itís pathetic. But he does use this quite a bit, and she does realize it will inconvenience him. Itís the smile that saves him.

ď...It can wait.Ē Without a second thought, she reaches for his hand and tugs him back toward their dwelling.

A small grin appears as she turns to face Jasper, sights flickering over him briefly. He isnít sleeping. She can tell. This would be made quick. ďI want to cut off access to certain streets,Ē she points up toward the grate. ďThere are too many ways into our home. I realize you use this often, so how heartbroken would you be if I killed it?Ē

Gray stares at the message, surprise evident. He seriously thinks.. it's fine. It's completely fine. It best to let it go on this way. It would only speed things up and get his partner out of the fire sooner. So, despite the twisting of his gut and the sinking of his heart, Gray sets the phone down.

There is no reservation as he thieves the square, but rather, she takes it right back once he's done. Sharing, after all, is caring. "Lilly's tastes best be met," raising a brow toward him, she puffs away before offering her smoke up once more. "And I require something specific as well."

Smirking, she looks at him pointedly. He opened this can of stripper worms, and he would deliver. "Thanks, Santa."

"Oh, you f-ckin' b-stard," Turning to follow him, she watches as he opens the drawer and peers inside at her mussed up stash. The door is closed behind her, and steps are taking to cross the room. A heavy pillow lifted from the bed before it is launched at the back of Jasper's head. "Pick something. We're going to have fun."

She really had thought she lost it, but Mackenzie simply got lucky when one of their own returned the head to her, her name crudely carved across its clammy forehead. She tosses it by the hair to Jasper as she approaches, a wild grin on her face. There is no time given to contemplate before he is met with a powerful hug just moments after. ďGood morning, Dear!Ē

Groaning, he glances toward the middle aged man at the bar, clearly waiting for his golden ticket that comes in the form of Gray. Sighing, he glances toward his phone again. He's in the doghouse, he knows it.

ďI have no idea,Ē Mackenzie laughs out the words, giving him a squeeze and lifting her head to press a ridiculous kiss to his cheek. This guy. Pulling out of his grasp, she takes his hand and begins to tug at him. ďLetís f-cking gooooooo. Iím starved.Ē A smirk would be passed to the man, and before anything else could be said, she is pulling him along.

Mackenzie grins when she hears him attempt to sing. Poor dear, he really is doing his best. It doesnít much matter, anyway. Heís grabbed her up and is spinning her heels before dipping and turning her. She f-cking loves every second of it. Breathless laughter continues to escape her and she steps forward to wrap him up in a grateful hug. ďI might have. How about lunch, and Netflix? Chill, a bit.Ē Leaning back, she looks up at him with a mischievous glint in her eye.

"Keep trying, dear," Mackenzie grins as she feels the familiar hand attempting her pocket, turning to lean in toward Jasper and lowering her voice to a whisper. "Maybe you'll actually get something, soon."

Gray stares at his phone, mind numb and body rebelling against him. He is on a bender, and each time he begins to sober up, Jasper resurfaces in his mind. Jasper, and the sh-tty things he said to him. This is one of those times.

Those three telling dots would show up on Jasper's phone if he were to look at precisely the right time. Several messages typed and swiftly deleted by Gray; none are good enough. And then, they would disappear.

"To be fair, that isn't an inaccurate word for me...and yes I have shrooms, I know a lot of guys who sell them, but they usually just give them to me after I threaten to toss them from a building." He shrugs and tosses three gallon ziplock baggies to Jasp

Things are awkward. Moscow is cold in more ways than one, and Mackenzie needs nothing more than to keep her mood light. This is why booze was invented, though vodka is not her drink of choice, it seems that is what she gets. But, seeing Jasper walking her way, she bites back a smirk and waits until they are passing to land a resounding slap to his backside before lifting what little cash she can grab.

"I'll text the time too you," she mutters, glancing at her watch before setting about to gather her things. "I love you more, Jasp." She kisses into the phone before hanging up, pocketing her phone as her stony gaze would set about the area for anything she might have left behind.

"Thank f-ck," she mutters, leaning her head into the phone as she continues to hear her best friend speak. Brow raising, she is already feeling feisty. Need to go to Moscow? In her world, that means someone is getting f-cking stomped. "Out with it, Jasp."

Spring is dead.

She stops. Mackenzie is still as a statue for seconds before she turns her head to look at her intended meal. "Hold on just a second..."

There is a ruffle of noise as she sets the phone on the nearest surface, her hand peeling off the man's mouth before she takes his head in her hands. There would be a scream, cut off by a loud snap, followed by a minute of silence before she picks the phone up once again. This is normal, she reminds herself. Completely, utterly normal.

Mackenzie is having the time of her life. When her phone rings, she picks up, pressing it to her ear despite the breathless giggles that are erupting from her endlessly. Who knew murder could be so hilarious? "Jasp, dear, I f-cking miss you so much right now."

And then, he speaks. Her laughter ceases slowly, the tone of his voice catching her. She knows this man. She knows him well. This is not the tone of her sweet, handsome Jasper dear.

Her dinner begins to scream for help, and Mackenzie's hand moves fast to clamp over it, a steady glare aimed at the man. Chewing at her lip, she looks upward, preparing herself for the blow that is to come. "You're breaking up with me, then?"

His phone is chiming, and he cannot quite grasp the concept of talking with these people. He can't. Gray is totally shut down, unwilling to discuss anything. So, with a glance at Jasper, he pushes the phone toward the man before lifting the limp form of Spring. There are things that must be done. "Handle them. Don't tell them. Not yet."

"Oye," Mackenzie looks over her shoulder from where she is, leaning over her desk in attempt to reach something that had fallen between it and the wall. Nevermind doing things the easy way. "...I suppose you're allow that."

Upon his arrival, Mackenzieís squeal of delight over Jasperís presence is perfectly audibly. Her arms would snake around his waist, hugging the man warmly. With a grin, she looks up at him as her hands dip into his back pockets. ďTwo blocks? That was a long two blocks.Ē

Moments later, she would reveal her high dollar theft and wink. ďYou are too good to me.Ē

Setting his phone aside, Gray lets out a groan from his place beside Jasper. The bed is warm, comfortable, but he finds the need to move. Turning onto his side, he would trail kisses along the man's jaw as he speaks. "I'm going to Moscow. Just for a couple days. I just want to fix things with Spring."

Gray opens the door, glaring at the man immediately. He stands there for only a moment before making a grab for Jasperís shirt and pulling him in to wrap him up in his arms, kicking the door closed behind him. ďF-cking *******.Ē

"I mostly just get hangry, myself... though, that can end in a murder spree. Huh. Yeah. I guess it's not just dolphins."-stares off at this sudden realization--brings it back-"It was useless information until now, hm? Now I have a name to the face."-pulls out some cigs--offers-"I live for the radar. Idris Mowbry. My situation is... complicated."

"Now don't say that. I'm sure you got one or more in ya!"-chuckles-"Ah, Jasper Thompson. I remember your name in passing from years ago."-taps his temple-"Memory is like a vault. Mostly for useless knowledge. Did you know dolphin's go on killing sprees when sexually frustrated?"-is socially awkward--but owns it-

Staring at the screen, Gray doesnít know quite what to do. This is a lot. More than a lot. It is heavy, and he feels that weight easily. Feelings donít come easily to the man, and he finds himself quite still as he processes.

Gray waves over his shoulder, bowing his head but not stalling in his step once. He knows this game. Heís aware of it. But that doesnít make it any less bothersome. ďSeemed pretty straight forward to me, Jasper.Ē

"Don't you dare talk about Marky Mark that way," Mackenzie readjusts, turning her glare to the TV. "But... well, you usually have a good nose for that sh-t. I don't think Spring would do it, but she can definitely help..."

Without hesitation, she tugs her phone from her pocket and proceeds to text her twin b-tch. "I am sure she can make some magic happen. This is our good deed for the day, Jasp."

"I try to be culturally relevant..." she mutters, taking the bottle as the opening credits roll. Taking a drink, she tosses him a look before turning her attention. "Besides, you'd just turn on f-cking Transformers."

Smirking at the mention of Gray, she tilts her head back and looks at him. "He doesn't like anyone. He just walks around with a stick up his arse all day, throwing people dirty looks and getting Spring all riled up about latkes. He's washed up, Jasp, and he knows it. It's sad, really."

That electric, icy stare meets Jasper's dark squall as she drinks straight from the bottle. Vodka isn't precisely her cup of tea, but she is feeling different. She wants a change. "What were you doing in the lab? It's a f-cking lab, Jasp. Of course there's going to things. I mean, it takes effort to wake them up, now..."

She follows him inside, closing the door behind her with her foot. Within seconds, she is on the couch and tucking herself against him comfortably. Remote in hand, she navigates the TV until she finds an acceptable chick flick: 10 Things I Hate About You.

"Honestly," she sighs, taking one more sip before passing the bottle off, "I'll go kill them tomorrow. It's fine."

In the safety of Death, Gray Taylor walks through the hall with a gun in hand. He isn't far from his destination. Paces, really. The man is on autopilot, until he sees another walking toward him, going the opposite direction. A set of steel eyes would lock into his, a fiery brew of emotions storming behind them upon recognition. Not a word is spoken before he disappears into the lab.

There's a thing, in a fridge, that must be dealt with. Gray Taylor locks the door behind him.

JasperIt would probably be better in person.His name is Derek.Beautiful, he is.I think he said it is 420 Me St.Or you can send it to the Den in NY.I tend to stay there. A lot.You get settled. Then we drink.Got to catch up with the rude Irish one too.The Redcoat likes if you bite his fingers.Just saying.

ďSo you are to blame for her inability to be loyal? Good to know.Ē The corners of his mouth turn upward into a Cheshire grin, and he steps in just slightly, shameless. His hands are shoved into his pockets, elbows tucked in but relaxed. Gray is taking the bait, on purpose.

But he says nothing. Instead, he merely takes a slightly closer look. The man is interesting, that is for certain. The exact opposite of himself, to be precise. ďWhat makes you special, Jasper?Ē

At the mention of Mackenzie, Gray barely flinches. His opinions of the woman are strong, and he could alienate half the Realm with them. Or, make friends. It all depends on who he is talking to. Heís not judging. Not at all. ďLucky you. Tell me, does she miss her Sanctuary?Ē

ďYou are completely full of sh-t,Ē Gray annunciates clearly, each consonant sounding off softly but directly. He isnít quite sure how this man found his way here, but it doesnít take much to realize that this would be his burden. ďHow did you come to find Spring? Follow my wallet?Ē

There is a telling sigh that escapes Gray as that steady, stormy gaze remains fixed on Jasper. The man is aggressive, and the things heís heard are common, if not irritating. ďGray Taylor,Ē his sights flicker over Jasper briefly. ďAnd you are?Ē

Grinning, she meets his gaze with an equally wicked look and pushes herself to stand, marching over to where her heels wait to be retrieved. It takes seconds to shove them upright and slip her feet into them.

Mackenzie half-tosses the phone to rest upon the surface of the table, watching it slide to a rest before meeting Jasper's gaze. "Julian is the reason Sine Metu fell. You know that? It is his fault." She would never forgive the boy for that. He'd practically slept with the enemy, inviting them in.

Mackenzie is seething. More and more, she is finding the flaws in those she once counted as friends. They would lay their blame on her, but she would turn right around and set the record straight. And so, she would go right into it all. Edward, and how he intentionally drove down standings. The way he declared war, and why. And how, after all that, no one bothered to check in. "It's not loyalty that's dead, Jasp. It's honor."

"Jasp!" Mackenzie hisses as she makes a beeline for the man, bare feet padding heavily with each rushed step. The woman practically vaults the coffee table to get to him, nearly colliding into him haphazardly. "Jasper. Jasp."

It is immediately clear that the weather is stormy with a 95% chance of salt, today. Mackenzie would thrust her phone into his hands as she makes her declaration. "Can you believe the nerve? It's like we never existed? And also sided with my ex-f-cking-husband? And then- Jasper. There is so much... so much..."

You're right. He is going to be pissed.
UV blocking windows aren't cheap...
-Musing costs, still grinning-
-Turns to watch the door-
I've never actually seen him angry.
-Stands and cracks necks-
Challenge, accepted.

Jasp, I love you, but I don't want that on my phone.
-Takes a step back, looks him over-
I never would have guessed you were hairy. Huh.
-Grins-
-Invades his personal space, takes selfie-
How does this Snapchat thing work, again...

ďAm I?Ē Gray casts an amused stare, not moving from where he stands despite the clear challenge presented. A slow, twisted grin would curl the corners of his mouth upward before he finally looks away. Is that a rat tail? ďOr maybe I just know that patience has quite the payoff.Ē